Imagine you're the mother of a newborn with a birth defect — one requiring immediate surgery and months of care. How would you feel? How would the experience shape your future?

Ask Laurie Watkins of McDonough to tell her story, and you get inspiring answers to these questions.

When her son Hunter was born with intestinal malrotation, Watkins' physician at Egleston Children's Hospital, now called Healthcare of Atlanta, took immediate action to correct the problem and save Hunter's life. The prognosis was good, yet required two surgeries and daily care over three months.

Still, the experience was devastating. “I felt betrayed and angry. I had the `why me' syndrome,” said Watkins.

After putting Hunter on the road to health, she did not allow herself to become bitter or closed. Rather, she has transcended tragedy to share her story and to become a hero for babies. “Once Hunter was healthy I realized how lucky we were not to have lost him; and I wanted to somehow contribute to making sure other families would not have to endure what we faced. The March of Dimes seemed like the perfect opportunity for me to fill that need.”

Watkins says the March of Dimes organization supports cutting-edge research and innovative programs dedicated to ending birth defects and giving all babies a healthy start in life. “I strongly support the March of Dimes and encourage everyone to either walk or donate. I tell them my personal story so they will know that these children are as close as next door. And by volunteering, I can personally help another by sharing my experience and letting people know how important these children are.”

Asked what advice she would give to other parents, she says, “Know that no family is immune from birth defects, make sure to get the prenatal care needed, and do not take any child for granted.”

As a supporter of March of Dimes annual WalkAmerica fund-raiser, Watkins has collected donations, walked, served as a team captain, and encouraged others to be involved. She sees herself as getting even more involved in the future.

What keeps her motivated to work so hard? “When I look at Hunter and my youngest son, who was born healthy, I realize that children are a true gift and if we can help save one then we have made a difference.”

Watkins asks you to get involved in WalkAmerica.

For information, phone Kellyann Dunning, assistant WalkAmerica director, 404-350-9800.

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